At long last I’m so glad to once again dive into the brain of Alan McClure with my review of ‘Callum and the Other’. A fantastic (and criminally underrated) sequel to Callum and the Mountain.
Just like in Callum and the Mountain you will be taken on an exhilarating journey filled with nature, supernatural wonders, and intense adventure. In three words: Nature, Supernatural, Intense.
(Also, there’s a fantastic bit which mentions character Craigs’ Dad who takes credit for a profile sound on new social media app ‘pingme’. The sound plays a 3 second customisable sound every-time you post something! This is such a great idea and hope someone reading this can make this happen… anybody…)
Anyway… Alan McClure’s love for the great outdoors is palpable in every line of this book. He paints the natural world with such affection that it will undoubtedly evoke memories of your own youthful escapades. As the story unfolds, nature itself becomes an integral character, intertwining its mysteries with the supernatural, leaving you questioning whether there’s more at play beneath the surface.
“Callum and the Other” picks up with 14-year-old Callum, who is grappling with change in the village of Skerrils. Although the weather has not changed at all. New faces have arrived, important figures have departed, and even the iconic Mountain has vanished into the October mist. Yet, lurking within that mist is a chilling new presence, aptly named ‘The Other,’ threatening to obliterate everything Callum has fought for.
McClure masterfully guides us through Callum’s grief, both for those he’s lost and for the fading magic that once thrived. The magical essence of the first book remains, but it has matured to align with Callum’s coming-of-age perspective, encapsulating the trials and tribulations of a fourteen-year-old navigating the mysteries of a world caught between youth and adulthood.
What sets “Callum and the Other” apart is McClure’s unique storytelling. His love for language shines through, creating a narrative that is refreshingly distinctive. The generous sprinkling of Scots dialect (which I’ve made a key at the end for 😂) and the authentic dynamics between the young characters infuse the story with a vibrant realism that’s both heartwarming and, at times, hilarious.
The cast of magical characters that collide in Skerrils adds depth and wonder to the story, with special mention to the foreboding appearances of the enigmatic old man in the early chapters, showcasing McClure’s compelling storytelling at its best. I’d love to share one of my favourite quotes which I think is a great example of the authors writing:
“This is not the invigorating, life-bringing rain of spring. This feels like someone is trying to power-wash the last trace of summer colours out of the landscape.”
I love it!
In “Callum and the Other,” Alan McClure continues to craft an unforgettable and mysterious world that will capture the hearts of readers both young and old. The theme of the book beautifully underscores the importance of our connection to nature, drawing a stark contrast between the sterile, mechanical or digital world and the vibrant, magical one. McClure’s narrative is not only an escape from reality but a reminder of the beauty that can be found when we embrace nature and the supernatural.
Even main character Callum doesn’t have a phone which infuriates mate Steven who has to actually go round to his house to speak to him. The horror!
So, strap in and join Callum and his friends in this breathtaking sequel, which takes you on a journey through grief, adventure, and the magic that still exists in the world. “Callum and the Other” is a must-read, a unique and captivating story that will leave you wanting more.
Scots Key (to save you time googling)
Bletherskite – Someone who blathers
“Shoogled out of his dwam” – shaken out of his daydream (when Callum meets Jenny)
Drookit – Extremely wet
Glaikit – Foolish/stupid (I’m definitely pinching this one)
Bumbaiselt – bewildered or stupified
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